Nadine,
The power that OBL (I see those initials in my mind as ODB-Old Dirty Bastard), currently enjoys did not originate in 1998. OBL is an opportunist and his support stems from a base that was raised on anti-American sentiment. My point is that the long time support of Israel by the States is one of the major, if not the most important, origins of this negative sentiment.
Also, don't you think that OBL will latch on to any and all "causes" that increase his base of support? Soon he will be against the Swiss, because they cause so much trouble in the world.
Its much easier to find those extremists for Al-Queda from a base that is already anti-western.
"and you'd have a tough time arguing that Saddam invaded Kuwait due to Israel"
No, I would not argue that, but I would note that Saddam knew exactly where he would aim his limited amount of Scuds. He knew this would force the States to show their hand, and if effective, force Israel to respond. This hatred of Israel in the Arab states (except the ones where the U.S. pays off for peace) is clear to me. Saddam knew exactly how to best increase his local support, and that was aim at Israel.
There is much I like about your last paragraph. The idea of "inventing" an Israel is interesting. I think to see my point I need to be clear that I do not think the hatred of Israel is just, logical, or productive. Its just a very good reason, and had a better reason been available then Israel may not have been a factor.
Good Luck
TH |
